What brings this landscape design to the professional level? What is the first thing you see, what draws your eye? The fountain in the lake is your focal point - without it your eye would pass over the photo quickly and find nothing to stand out in your mind.
Focal points are a key aspect of a successful landscaping plan. In fact, focal points are an important element in all types of design because they create a sense of emphasis or point of view. So a beautifully decorated room or amazing piece of art will have a focal point too.
A focal point with its strong visual impact is a timeless designer's tool and if not utilized to some degree, landscaping will seem ordinary or even haphazard. This is because the principle of emphasis gives the important focus and flow that good design must have.
An eye engaging element uses light, direction, height, position, color, or a combination of any of these characteristics. Examples of focal points for landscape designers in Ormond Beach, St. Augustine, or Palm Coast may include:
Water features - as evidenced by the dramatic fountain in the photo above, water is very expressive.
Statues - including modern shapes, figurative pieces, and unique planters that stand out from the crowd.
Trees - palm trees are obvious focal points, but so are other various species of trees and large plants.
Fire pits - often built as works of art in themselves, a fire pit or fire bowl adds the enticement of warmth.
Outdoor lighting - used in conjunction with any of the above, your focal point comes alive at night as well.
🦚Article by Connie Helena, author of The Green Orchid 🦚
